In a blind taste test of eight supermarket own-brand wheat biscuits, only one managed to score a perfect 10 out of 10, and it was also one of the cheapest options. The winning biscuit was Sainsbury's own-brand version, priced at £1.46 for a 24-pack, significantly undercutting the original Weetabix at £3.50.
The price gap
The test was prompted by the rising cost of Weetabix, which has increased notably in recent years. A standard 24-pack now retails at £3.50 in Sainsbury's, while most supermarket alternatives sit comfortably within the £1.70-£2 range. This price difference, combined with the fact that cereal is a staple in many households, led to the comparison.
The taste test
Each biscuit was tested with the same amount of milk to gauge how quickly they absorbed it. The results varied widely, with some described as 'cardboard-like' and others praised for their texture and flavour.
Lidl's wheat biscuits, sold only in a 36-pack at £2.19, absorbed milk rapidly and turned soggy, scoring just 3/10. Asda's version, the most budget-friendly at £1.77, held its shape well and was enjoyable, earning 7/10. Tesco's biscuits, at £1.80, were a 'genuine delight' with a hearty flavour and satisfying texture, scoring 9/10.
Aldi's 36-pack at £2.19 was disappointingly mushy and tasteless, scoring 4/10. Marks and Spencer's version, at £2.10, had a reasonably satisfactory flavour but failed to hold texture, scoring 6/10. Morrisons' biscuits, at £1.90, were the worst, with a 'distinctly unpleasant, cardboard-like taste' that lingered, scoring just 2/10. Waitrose's version, at £2.25, was also a letdown, scoring 3/10 due to an unpleasant flavour.
The winner
Sainsbury's wheat biscuits, at just £1.46, were the clear favourite. They boasted the perfect texture, flavour, and sweetness, retaining a satisfying bite after milk was added. The tester noted that had it not been for the packaging, they would have believed it was a premium brand.
The original Weetabix scored only 6/10, with the tester finding the flavour underwhelming despite the superb texture. They concluded that it doesn't warrant the £3.50 price tag.
For those looking to save nearly £2 on their shopping, the recommendation is to switch to Sainsbury's own-brand version.
